Derby competitors face off in Millville for CC Fair Assoc and SPCA

MILLVILLE -- Hardy drivers faced off in the heat and dust of an early summer tease Saturday for this year's Spring Demolition Derby at the county Fairgrounds.

Terry McCalmont, chairman of the Derby for the Cumberland County Fair Association, said about 25 cars were expected to compete.

Proceeds from a $10 admission charge and concession sales at the event went to the Cumberland County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (CCSPCA) and the Fair Association.

The Fair Association invited CCSPCA to take part by selling the concessions and touting its cause.

"This is good for us because it's one more venue to reach out to as many people as possible," said CCSPCA Director Bev Greco.

"It allows us to showcase our animals, to help get them adopted and to promote spaying and neutering, because this is the breeding season," she added.

Visitors could vote for the CCSPCA's "Dog of the Year" by placing a donation in a box beneath a picture of the dog of choice. Twelve dogs were in the running.

All proceeds go to the care of homeless animals under the care of the organization.

"We're hoping this year will go well and that we'll be able to do another one with the CCSPCA next year," McCalmont said.

Local fire companies have also helped with the group's derbies, including the now-defunct Carmel Volunteer Fire Company.

McCalmont thanked Millville Fire Department Seabrook, Station 32 for their support.
He also said Atlas Flasher and Supply Company designed and built a communication system that made competitions safer for the drivers.

"One of their concerns was a more clearly-audible system" for the drivers during events, especially in the case of a fire or injury.

He also mentioned plans for future derbies.

"We're looking to have a four-race series next year, starting in the spring and going through the fall, with an overall points champion," he said.